Tripwire President Leaves Company Following Controversial Tweet

The president of Tripwire Interactive has left his position in the company following a controversial Tweet that led to a backlash from fans and streamers alike. 

What Did John Gibson Say On Twitter?

On September 4, Gibson took to the social media platform to express his views regarding the Texas abortion ban. He wrote: "Proud of #USSupremeCourt affirming the Texas law banning abortion for babies with a heartbeat. As an entertainer I don’t get political often. Yet with so many vocal peers on the other side of this issue, I felt it was important to go on the record as a pro-life game developer."

As a result, many streamers began distancing themselves from the company, with fans and gamers alike also blocking them on Steam so that they wouldn't play any of their games, such as Maneater and Chivalry 2, ever again.

A couple of days after Gibson's Tweet, Shipwright Studios released a statement saying it would be cutting ties with Tripwire "effective immediately". 

What Has Tripwire Said About Their President Stepping Down?

In a statement posted on Twitter, Tripwire confirmed that they had appointed a new interim CRO, Alan Wilson, as the 'company moves forward'. They wrote: "The comments given by John Gibson are of his own opinion, and do not reflect those of Tripwire Interactive as a company. His comments disregarded the values of our whole team, our partners, and much of our broader community. Our leadership team at Tripwire are deeply sorry and are unified in our commitment to take swift action and to foster a more positive environment."

They continued: "Effectively immediately, John Gibson has stepped down as CRO of Tripwire Interactive. Co-founding member and current Vice President, Alan Wilson, will take over as interim CEO. Alan has been with the company since its formation in 2005 and is an active lead in both the studio's business and developmental affairs. Alan will work with the rest of the Tripwire leadership team to take steps with employees and partners to address their concerns, including executing a company-wide town hall meeting and promoting open dialogue with Tripwire leadership and all employees. His understanding of both the company’s culture and the creative vision of our games will carry the team through this transition, with full support from the other Tripwire leaders".

As you can probably imagine, the reaction to the news has been mixed to say the last. Some Twitter uses are applauding Tripwire for their swift actions, while others are saying that it's 'cancel culture' and a violation of 'free speech'. 

However, the most liked comment at the time of writing is as follows: "Just a reminder for all the idiots that are inevitably coming to the comments. Free speech gives you the right to say stupid sh*t but not the right to avoid consequences."